If I have found favor in the king’s sight and if the king is inclined1 to grant my request and perform my petition, let the king and Haman come tomorrow to the banquet that I will prepare for them. At that time2 I will do as the king wishes.3

In rage the king arose from the banquet of wine and withdrew to the palace garden. Meanwhile, Haman stood to beg Queen Esther for his life,1 for he realized that the king had now determined a catastrophic end for him.2

When the king returned from the palace garden to the banquet of wine, Haman was throwing himself down1 on the couch where Esther was lying.2 The king exclaimed, “Will he also attempt to rape the queen while I am still in the building!” As these words left the king’s mouth, they covered Haman’s face.